Frontosa (1.75-2”)

Scientific Name

Cyphotilapia frontosa (Burundi variant)

Maximum Size and Lifespan

• Size: Up to 12–14 inches (30–35 cm) in captivity, sometimes larger in the wild. Females usually max out around 8-10"

• Lifespan: Around 15–20 years with proper care.

Recommended Aquarium Size, Water Changes, and Care

• Tank Size: A minimum of 75 gallons (475 liters) is recommended for a group, as they are large, slow-growing, and social cichlids. Larger tanks (180–200+ gallons) are ideal for large mature groups. Juveniles can be raised in 20-55 gallon tank for better observation.

• Water Parameters:

  • Temperature: 74–80°F (23–27°C)

  • pH: 7.0–8.5
    

• Water Changes: Perform 20–30% weekly water changes. Stability in water chemistry is more important than frequent large changes.

• Care Needs: Provide strong biological filtration, steady water parameters, and dim or subdued lighting since Frontosas dislike bright conditions. They also need plenty of rock structures and caves for hiding.

Tankmates

• Best kept in groups of 6 or more (to reduce aggression and establish hierarchy).

• Suitable tankmates include other Lake Tanganyika cichlids of similar size and temperament, such as Altolamprologus or large Synodontis catfish. They can also be mixed with Lake Malawi Cichlids with caution

• Avoid highly aggressive cichlids (like Mbuna from Lake Malawi) and very small fish that may be eaten.

Diet

• Carnivorous/omnivorous tendencies.

• Feed a diet of:

  • High-quality cichlid pellets

  • Frozen or live foods (krill, shrimp, earthworms, silversides)

  • Occasional vegetable matter (spirulina or algae-based foods)

• Avoid excessive fatty foods (like beef heart) to prevent digestive issues.

• Best fed 2–3 smaller meals daily rather than one large feeding.

Overview

The Burundi Frontosa is a large, majestic cichlid recognized for its hump on the head (nuchal hump) and bold black-and-white vertical stripes. They are slow-moving, peaceful compared to many cichlids, and prefer dimly lit aquariums with rocky caves. While not overly aggressive, they establish a clear pecking order within their group. Due to their size, long lifespan, and special requirements, they are best suited for experienced aquarists with large aquariums.

Natural Environment

• Native to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa, one of the world’s oldest and deepest lakes.

• Found at depths of 15–50 meters, where light is dim and water is stable in chemistry.

• In the wild, they form colonies along rocky outcrops and sandy bottoms, feeding on smaller fish and invertebrates.

Breeding

• Mouthbrooders: The female carries fertilized eggs in her mouth until they hatch.

• Sexual maturity occurs around 3–4 years old.

• Spawning usually takes place in a secluded cave or rock crevice.

• The female incubates eggs in her mouth for about 3–4 weeks, protecting the fry until they are free-swimming.

• Fry can be removed and raised separately on baby brine shrimp and crushed cichlid flakes.

• Breeding can be challenging because they are slow to mature and require a stable, stress-free environment.